What is Sensitivity?
Sensitivity is a basic human trait that describes how we perceive and process information from the world around us. It has two main parts:
Sensing the environment – noticing sounds, smells, tastes, touch, and other sensory input.
Processing deeply – reflecting on and thinking carefully about experiences.
Everyone is sensitive to some extent, but some people are more sensitive than others. Research shows that highly sensitive individuals are more strongly influenced by what happens to them—both the challenges and the positive experiences. For example, highly sensitive individuals can be more prone to negative mental health outcomes in negative or unsupportive environments, but will be especially able to thrive in supportive environments and can benefit more from interventions.
1 in 3 of us are more sensitive than average, with some people especially high in sensitivity.
The Science of Sensitivity
Over time, researchers have developed different theories to explain differences in sensitivity. These have recently been brought together under the concept of Environmental Sensitivity, which includes terms such as Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), Orchids and Dandelions, and Differential Susceptibility.
Environmental Sensitivity suggests that people vary in how they respond to their surroundings due to differences in the brain and genetics, combined with life experiences. This means sensitivity is both partly inherited and partly shaped by environment—beginning before birth and continuing throughout life.
Sensitivity is not a disorder—it is a common human trait.
While some neurodevelopmental conditions like Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC) or Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may involve sensory differences, they are distinct from sensitivity.
It is possible for someone to be both highly sensitive and autistic, or both highly sensitive and have ADHD. But most sensitive people do not have ASC or ADHD.
Sensitivity through Development
Differences in sensitivity can already be seen before birth. Research shows that some babies respond more strongly to sounds or their mother’s stress during pregnancy.
In infancy and childhood, sensitive children may:
Cry more often and take longer to calm down
React more strongly to new situations or strangers
Be easily overstimulated or cautious in unfamiliar settings
However, it’s important to note that early research often emphasised the difficulties of sensitivity while overlooking its strengths. Supportive environments can help sensitive children flourish and make the most of their unique abilities.
The Sensitivity Spectrum
Everyone falls somewhere on the sensitivity spectrum:
High sensitivity (30%) – sometimes called Orchids
Medium sensitivity (40%) – sometimes called Tulips
Low sensitivity (30%) – sometimes called Dandelions
Orchids may need more care but thrive beautifully under the right conditions. Dandelions are more robust and adaptable, while Tulips fall in between. Importantly, this is a spectrum, not a strict division—everyone is sensitive to some degree.
Strengths of High Sensitivity
Sensitivity also comes with powerful advantages:
Empathy and relationships – deeply understanding others’ feelings
Creativity and innovation – seeing connections and expressing ideas
Attention to detail – noticing subtleties that others may miss
Appreciation of beauty – a rich response to art, music, and nature
Because of these strengths, sensitive people often excel as counsellors, teachers, artists, scientists, and leaders. Research also shows that sensitive children and adults benefit more than others from supportive environments, education, and interventions.
Challenges of High Sensitivity
Highly sensitive people may:
Feel more affected by stress or adversity
Struggle in chaotic or overstimulating environments
Be at greater risk for anxiety or depression when facing difficult circumstances
Sensitivity and Sensation Seeking
Approximately half of highly sensitive people are also high sensation seekers. This means that they may have a strong drive for novelty, adventure, and new challenges but will also need downtime to process new information and recover from high levels of stimulation.
When balanced, this combination can be a real strength. Sensitive sensation seekers often bring bold creativity, curiosity, and fresh perspectives—able to both reflect deeply and embrace new opportunities.
Sensitivity and Masculinity
Sensitivity is a natural human trait that occurs equally in both men and women, but cultural expectations often link masculinity with toughness and emotional control. This can make sensitive boys and men feel misunderstood or pressured to hide their natural responses.
In reality, sensitivity in men brings many strengths—empathy, emotional insight, careful decision-making, and strong relational skills. When supported and embraced, these qualities enhance leadership, teamwork, and personal relationships, showing that sensitivity is a strength, not a limitation.
Sensitivity isn’t unique to humans. Similar patterns have been observed in many animals, including dogs, fish, and birds. This shows sensitivity has a biological and evolutionary role, helping species adapt to their environments.
Measuring Sensitivity
Sensitivity is most often measured through carefully developed questionnaires for adults and children. These reflect the individual’s experience of their environment. More objective assessments can also be carried out by trained specialists.
Professional assessments are available to help identify high sensitivity and provide guidance on how to best harness it.